Tuesday, July 07, 2009

Cyberspace is not the only place where the National Security Agency (NSA) is extending its electronic surveillance tentacles. WMR has learned from NSA sources that NSA has been training a new generation of signals intelligence operators for the electronic security services of nations that are considered within Russia's sphere of influence, also known as Russia's "near abroad."

Through the Defense Language Institute English Language Center (DLIELC) at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. San Antonio is also home to NSA Texas, a Regional Security Operations Center (RSOC), and the Air Force's new Cyber-Command, which works closely with NSA to conduct surveillance of the Internet.

DLIELC, which has been in operation since 1954, has trained foreign signals intelligence and other intelligence gathering specialists English. lMost of those trained are from Kazakhstan, however, others have been trained from Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Uzbekistan. In addition, prospective English-speaking signals intelligence operators from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia have also been trained by DLIELC for duty back in their home countries.

In some cases, after receiving training at DLIELC, special security troops are trained by tactical infantry U.S. Special Forces at Fort Benning, Georgia.

WMR has learned from NSA sources that two past graduates of the DLIELC were deposed Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and "Al Qaeda" leader Osama bin Laden.